12 Cruise Ports Passengers Regret Visiting

Cruise ports are supposed to be the highlight of the trip. Crystal-clear water. Beautiful beaches. Bucket-list cities. But some stops leave passengers wishing they’d stayed on the ship instead.

After digging through thousands of real cruise reviews, I found certain ports coming up again and again for all the wrong reasons. From dirty industrial harbours and pushy vendors to safety concerns, endless queues and attractions that simply don’t live up to the hype, these destinations left plenty of cruisers seriously disappointed.

Of course, every port has fans. But when the same complaints keep appearing across review after review, it starts to paint a pretty clear picture.

So which cruise ports do passengers regret visiting the most? Some of the answers might surprise you…

1. Prince Rupert, Canada

Prince Rupert in British Columbia is a port that often appears on Alaskan cruise itineraries. And according to the reviews analysed, it remains one of the most disappointing cruise ports for passengers.

A recurring complaint in recent reviews is that there simply isn’t much to do. Visitors describe the downtown area as quiet and underwhelming, with limited shops, few attractions and little atmosphere compared to other Alaskan cruise stops. Several passengers said they struggled to fill their time ashore, especially if they hadn’t booked an excursion.

The industrial feel of the port was another common criticism. While the surrounding scenery is undeniably beautiful, many cruisers felt the actual port area lacked charm and tourist infrastructure. Some reviewers even questioned whether Prince Rupert exists mainly as a technical or regulatory stop rather than a destination passengers genuinely want to visit.

Excursions also received mixed feedback. While a handful of travellers enjoyed wildlife tours and local cultural experiences, others described the available excursions as limited, expensive or underwhelming for the price.

An interesting point raised repeatedly in reviews is that Prince Rupert feels more like a logistical stop than a true tourist destination. One of the main reasons cruise ships call here is due to U.S. cabotage laws (the Jones Act and the Passenger Vessel Services Act) which require foreign-flagged cruise ships sailing between American ports to stop at a foreign port along the way. Prince Rupert’s location near Alaska makes it a convenient option for cruise lines.

The port is also used for refuelling, resupplying and operational purposes. Unfortunately, many passengers felt that practicality doesn’t necessarily translate into a memorable day ashore.

That said, not every review was negative. Some visitors appreciated the quieter atmosphere, friendly locals and beautiful natural surroundings, particularly those interested in Indigenous culture or wildlife excursions. But overall, recent reviews suggest Prince Rupert still leaves many cruise passengers wondering whether they would have been happier staying onboard for the day.

2. Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Cruises around Southeast Asia often include breathtaking destinations filled with tropical beaches, beautiful temples and vibrant culture. But according to many recent cruise reviews, Cambodia’s Sihanoukville is not the paradise stop passengers expect.

The port, which is visited by cruise lines including Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Azamara, has developed a reputation for disappointing cruise visitors almost as soon as they step ashore.

One of the biggest complaints remains the city’s rapid and chaotic development. Reviewers frequently describe Sihanoukville as overcrowded with construction sites, unfinished buildings and casino developments, many of them backed by Chinese investment. Several passengers said the city felt more like a noisy building site than a relaxing cruise destination.

Cleanliness and pollution also continue to attract criticism. Recent reviews mention litter, dirty streets and unpleasant smells in some areas, with several visitors saying the beaches failed to live up to the idyllic images often associated with Southeast Asia.

Another recurring frustration is the aggressive behaviour of taxi drivers, tuk-tuk drivers and tour operators around the port. Many passengers said they felt constantly hassled the moment they left the cruise terminal, making it difficult to relax or explore independently.

The visa situation also remains unpopular with cruisers. Passengers are still required to pay for a Cambodian visa even if they choose not to leave the ship, something many reviewers described as frustrating given their disappointment with the port itself. Additional shuttle and transport costs only added to the sense that visitors were paying a lot for very little in return.

That said, not every review was entirely negative. Some passengers who booked longer excursions away from the port reported much better experiences, particularly those visiting temples, rural areas or nearby islands. A few reviewers also appreciated the chance to experience a less polished and more authentic side of Cambodia.

Still, judging by the latest reviews, Sihanoukville continues to be one of the most poorly regarded cruise ports in Southeast Asia, with many passengers recommending either booking a full-day excursion or treating it as an extra sea day i

3. Fortaleza, Brazil

Fortaleza should feel like a tropical Brazilian beach escape. But for many cruise passengers, the reality is far less glamorous.

Cruise ships dock in a heavily industrial part of the city, and reviewers often describe the arrival experience as chaotic, confusing and surprisingly intimidating. Before passengers even reach the city itself, they’re faced with shuttle buses, security checkpoints, traffic jams and persistent taxi drivers trying to negotiate fares.

Once ashore, many visitors say Fortaleza feels rough around the edges. Dirty streets, visible poverty and heavy security measures left some passengers feeling uncomfortable exploring independently. Several reviewers mentioned razor wire, armed guards and warnings about crime, which created a far less relaxed atmosphere than they expected from a beach destination.

The beaches themselves also divided opinion. While some passengers enjoyed the warm weather and ocean views, others complained that the nearest beaches felt overcrowded, unclean or disappointing compared to other Brazilian ports.

Excursions didn’t always improve matters either. Long bus rides, language barriers and underwhelming stops were common complaints, with several cruisers saying they spent more time travelling than actually sightseeing.

Still, Fortaleza does seem to reward passengers who plan carefully. Visitors who booked highly rated tours or focused on local culture and markets generally appeared far happier than those who tried to wander independently near the port area.

More than anything, Fortaleza feels like a port where expectations matter. Passengers expecting a polished Caribbean-style beach stop often left disappointed, while those prepared for a more chaotic and authentic urban experience tended to enjoy it far more.

4. Santa Marta, Colombia

Santa Marta is a Colombian cruise port most often visited by smaller luxury cruise ships from lines including Windstar Cruises, Explora Journeys, Silversea and Seabourn.

The port is marketed as a gateway to Tayrona National Natural Park, and many recent reviews suggest that’s exactly how it’s best approached — as a jumping-off point for an excursion rather than somewhere to explore independently.

A recurring complaint in reviews is that Santa Marta itself feels industrial, dirty and lacking in attractions close to the port. Since it’s primarily a working shipping port rather than a purpose-built cruise destination, passengers are often greeted by cargo operations, limited pedestrian areas and views that feel far removed from the tropical Caribbean atmosphere many expect.

Safety and comfort also continue to be concerns for some visitors. Multiple reviewers mentioned feeling uneasy while walking around town due to persistent street vendors, aggressive selling and a general sense of being hassled. Several passengers said they returned to the ship quickly after finding little to see or do nearby.

The intense heat and humidity were another common complaint, particularly for passengers attempting to explore independently without a planned excursion. Combined with rough pavements, traffic and limited tourist infrastructure, many reviewers felt Santa Marta wasn’t especially welcoming for cruise visitors.

That said, not every review was negative. Some travellers appreciated the more authentic local feel compared to heavily commercialised Caribbean ports, and excursions to beaches, nature reserves and Tayrona National Park generally received far more positive feedback than the port itself.

Still, judging by the latest reviews, Santa Marta remains a destination where most passengers recommend booking an organised tour rather than wandering the port area alone.

5. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo isn’t one of the Caribbean’s best-known cruise ports, but it does appear on itineraries with cruise lines including AIDA Cruises, Marella Cruises and Seabourn. As the capital of the Dominican Republic, it’s a huge city packed with history and culture. But according to many recent cruise reviews, the experience for passengers can be very mixed.

Safety remains one of the biggest concerns mentioned by visitors. Several passengers said they were warned not to explore independently, particularly outside tourist areas, due to the risk of theft and scams. The visible security presence around the port, including armed guards, added to the uneasy atmosphere for some travellers rather than making them feel reassured.

Cleanliness around the port area also attracted criticism in reviews. Some passengers described dirty streets, litter and rundown surroundings that created a poor first impression when arriving by cruise ship. A few reviewers even described the port area itself as one of the least appealing they’d visited in the Caribbean.

Another recurring complaint was the lack of attractions within walking distance of the cruise terminal. Many passengers said there was little to do nearby unless they booked an organised excursion or arranged transport into the city’s historic centre.

Excursions received mixed feedback overall. Some visitors enjoyed tours to colonial landmarks and attractions like Los Tres Ojos, while others criticised excursions for long travel times, disorganisation or disappointing beach stops that failed to live up to expectations.

Several cruisers did however, praise Santo Domingo’s historic old town, colourful architecture and cultural significance, especially when visiting with a knowledgeable guide. Others appreciated the opportunity to experience a less tourist-focused side of the Caribbean.

For many passengers, Santo Domingo is a port where planning ahead appears essential. Passengers who booked organised tours generally had far more positive experiences than those attempting to explore independently.

6. Samana, Dominican Republic

Samaná is a small, rural town in the Dominican Republic that appears on Caribbean itineraries with cruise lines including Costa Cruises, Holland America Line and Explora Journeys. While the surrounding region is known for beautiful scenery and whale watching opportunities, recent cruise reviews suggest the port itself still leaves many passengers underwhelmed.

A recurring theme in reviews is that there simply isn’t much to do within easy reach of the port. Visitors who expected a lively Caribbean destination instead described a town with rough roads, limited attractions and very little tourist infrastructure. Several passengers said they quickly returned to the ship after struggling to find anything worth exploring independently.

Safety and comfort also remain concerns for some travellers. Multiple reviewers mentioned feeling uneasy while walking around town, particularly due to persistent selling, begging and aggressive behaviour from some locals. Families travelling with children appeared especially uncomfortable in certain areas.

The local market experience divided opinion too. While some visitors enjoyed browsing handmade crafts and local artwork, others found the constant pressure from vendors exhausting rather than enjoyable.

Excursions received mixed reviews. Some passengers praised trips focused on beaches, whale watching and nature, but others described tours as poorly organised or disappointing for the price. The popular waterfall excursion continued to attract criticism from some travellers who felt the long journey and conditions didn’t justify the experience itself.

Samaná Bay itself is undeniably beautiful, and some passengers enjoyed the quieter, more authentic atmosphere compared to larger Caribbean cruise ports.

But many reviewers agreed that Samaná is a destination where your experience depends heavily on what you book. Passengers who arranged organised excursions generally had a far better time than those attempting to explore independently.

7. Brest, France

France is usually associated with beautiful cities, fantastic food and charming coastal towns. But according to many recent cruise reviews, Brest doesn’t quite deliver the experience passengers expect from a French port stop.

Located in Brittany in northwestern France, Brest is primarily a working naval and shipping port rather than a purpose-built cruise destination. And many visitors say that industrial atmosphere is immediately noticeable when arriving by cruise ship.

One of the biggest complaints in reviews is that there simply isn’t much to see or do close to the port. Several passengers described Brest as quiet, underwhelming and lacking major attractions within easy reach. Some visitors said they struggled to fill their time ashore unless they had booked an organised excursion in advance.

Transport and logistics also appear to frustrate many cruisers. Reviewers mentioned inconvenient shuttle arrangements, long walks into town and confusion around local transport options. When ships arrive on Sundays or public holidays, some passengers found shops, restaurants and attractions closed, making the destination feel even quieter.

The atmosphere of the city divided opinion too. While some travellers appreciated Brest’s more authentic and less touristy feel, others felt the city lacked the charm and welcoming atmosphere they expected from a French cruise stop.

Brest itself may leave some passengers underwhelmed, but many reviewers spoke far more positively about excursions into the surrounding Brittany region, especially trips focused on coastal scenery, historic villages and the French countryside.

For cruisers willing to venture beyond the port area, the wider region appears to offer a much more memorable experience than the city of Brest on its own.

8. Agadir, Morocco

Agadir is a popular Moroccan cruise port visited by ships from lines including MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line. And while some passengers enjoy the chance to experience Moroccan culture, recent reviews suggest many visitors leave feeling disappointed by the overall experience ashore.

One of the biggest complaints continues to be the port’s location and transport logistics. Since the cruise terminal sits in a largely industrial area, passengers can’t simply walk straight into a picturesque town centre. Many reviewers described the shuttle buses and taxi system as confusing, expensive or frustrating, with constant haggling over prices adding stress before the day had even begun.

The city itself divided opinion sharply. Some visitors enjoyed exploring the beachfront promenade and local markets, but others described Agadir as dirty, rundown and lacking the charm they expected from Morocco. Several passengers also mentioned feeling uncomfortable due to persistent selling, begging and aggressive vendor behaviour, particularly around tourist areas and markets.

Safety and comfort remain recurring concerns in reviews too. While many travellers explored without incident, others said they felt uneasy walking around independently, especially outside the more tourist-focused areas.

The souk continued to be one of the most talked-about attractions. Some cruisers loved the atmosphere, spices and local crafts, while others found the experience overwhelming due to pushy sales tactics and constant pressure to buy.

Passengers who ventured further from the port generally seemed to have better experiences, particularly on countryside and cultural tours. Even so, complaints about long drives, traffic and underwhelming excursions still appeared regularly in reviews.

Agadir does have its fans though. Some cruisers enjoyed the beachside cafés, warm weather and the chance to experience a less polished, more traditional side of Morocco. But for many visitors, this ended up being another port where organised tours felt far safer and more rewarding than exploring independently.

9. Santos, Brazil

Santos is Brazil’s largest port and the main gateway to São Paulo, one of the biggest cities in South America. But according to many recent cruise reviews, passengers are far more impressed by São Paulo than by Santos itself.

A recurring complaint is that the port feels overwhelmingly industrial rather than tourist-friendly. Cruise passengers describe arriving to container terminals, busy roads and long transfer times, which creates a poor first impression compared to the tropical image many people associate with Brazil.

Getting anywhere from the port also appears to be a major frustration. Multiple reviewers mentioned confusing shuttle arrangements, heavy traffic and lengthy journeys just to reach the city centre or nearby attractions. Several passengers said they spent far too much of their port day sitting on buses rather than actually enjoying the destination.

Safety concerns continue to feature heavily in reviews too. Some visitors described Santos as rundown, dirty or uncomfortable to explore independently, with several recommending sticking to organised excursions if visiting for the first time.

Excursions themselves received mixed feedback. Trips into São Paulo were generally viewed more positively, especially by passengers interested in culture, architecture and food. However, tours focused around Santos or nearby areas were often criticised for feeling underwhelming, overly commercial or not representative of the vibrant Brazilian experience passengers expected.

Some passengers did enjoy Santos’ beaches, gardens and waterfront areas, particularly those looking for a more authentic and less tourist-focused side of Brazil.

But overall, many cruisers came away feeling that the real highlights of the region lie beyond Santos itself, especially on excursions further afield to São Paulo and surrounding areas.

10. Salvador De Bahia, Brazil

Salvador de Bahia is one of Brazil’s most historic and culturally important cities, famous for its colourful colonial architecture, Afro-Brazilian culture and lively music scene. It’s a regular stop for MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises on South American itineraries.

But despite its rich history and reputation, recent cruise reviews suggest many passengers leave feeling uneasy about the experience.

Cleanliness and the overall condition of the city are recurring complaints. Multiple reviewers described parts of Salvador as dirty, rundown and poorly maintained, with litter, graffiti and crumbling buildings creating a far less glamorous impression than many expected from a major Brazilian destination.

Safety concerns also continue to feature heavily in reviews. Several passengers mentioned warnings about pickpocketing and theft, while others described feeling uncomfortable walking around independently, particularly outside the main tourist areas. Aggressive selling, begging and constant requests for money were frequently mentioned too.

The atmosphere around markets and tourist attractions divided opinion sharply. Some visitors enjoyed the lively local culture, music and street performances, while others found the experience overwhelming and exhausting due to persistent pressure from vendors and unofficial guides.

Passengers who booked organised tours to Salvador’s historic centre generally seemed to enjoy the stop far more, particularly those interested in colonial architecture, churches and local culture. But several reviewers said the rundown areas they passed through left a lasting negative impression.

Salvador is clearly a city that splits opinion. Some cruisers fell in love with the music, colourful streets and lively atmosphere, while others felt uncomfortable with the visible poverty, persistent selling and safety concerns. More than most ports on this list, your experience here seems to depend heavily on where you go and how you choose to explore.

11. Alotau, Papua New Guinea

When people picture Papua New Guinea, they often imagine untouched beaches, dense rainforest and incredible wildlife. But according to many cruise reviews, the small port town of Alotau can come as quite a surprise to first-time visitors.

A recurring complaint in reviews is the condition of the town itself. Passengers frequently mention litter, rough roads and very basic infrastructure, which can feel jarring for travellers expecting a polished tourist destination. The heat and humidity also add to the discomfort for some visitors exploring independently.

The local markets and shopping areas received mixed reactions too. Some passengers found them small and underwhelming, while others appreciated the opportunity to buy handmade crafts and interact with local people. Several reviewers noted that Alotau feels extremely poor compared to many cruise ports, which can make the experience feel confronting for some travellers.

That said, cultural experiences were often highlighted as the real strength of the destination. Traditional dancing, village visits and local performances received a lot of praise from passengers who embraced the opportunity to learn more about Papua New Guinea’s culture and way of life.

The friendliness of the local people was another recurring positive in reviews. Many visitors described locals as welcoming, warm and genuinely appreciative of cruise tourism, despite the obvious economic challenges facing the area.

Overall, Alotau appears to be one of the most divisive ports on this list. Some passengers described it as poor, dirty and lacking in attractions, while others found it fascinating precisely because it felt authentic and unlike anywhere else on their cruise itinerary.

So with Alotau, expectations seem to make all the difference. Travellers looking for luxury shopping and polished tourist attractions may leave disappointed. But those interested in culture and local life often come away with a much more positive impression.

12. Manzanillo, Mexico

The port of Manzanillo in Mexico has built up a reputation for disappointing cruise passengers, with many recent reviews suggesting it’s one of those ports where people either book an excursion immediately or stay onboard and enjoy a quieter ship.

Cruise lines including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line all visit Manzanillo on Mexican Riviera itineraries, but many passengers say the port itself leaves a lot to be desired.

One of the biggest complaints is the industrial nature of the port area. Manzanillo is primarily a major commercial shipping port, so instead of beaches and colourful waterfront promenades, passengers are often greeted by cargo containers, cranes and heavy traffic. Several reviewers described the area around the port as unattractive, noisy and lacking a typical holiday atmosphere.

Independent exploration also appears to frustrate many visitors. Reviewers frequently mention that there’s very little to see or do within walking distance of the port, while beaches and more scenic areas require lengthy taxi rides that many passengers felt were overpriced.

Many passengers also commented on the atmosphere around the port itself. Heavy security, armed guards and persistent taxi drivers left some visitors feeling uncomfortable before they’d even started exploring.

Excursions didn’t always rescue the experience either. While a few cruisers enjoyed scenic boat trips and tours outside the city, others described long coach journeys, forgettable attractions and poorly organised outings that felt overpriced for what they offered.

Manzanillo does seem to work better for travellers looking for a quieter, less touristy side of Mexico. Some passengers appreciated the surrounding scenery and enjoyed their day far more after venturing away from the industrial port area.

But overall, this is another stop where doing plenty of research beforehand appears to make a huge difference.

My Recommendation

Of course, cruise experiences are hugely subjective. One person’s “worst port ever” is another traveller’s fascinating cultural experience.

And in many cases, the disappointment comes down to expectations. Cruise brochures can make every destination look like paradise, but the reality is often far more complicated. Some ports are industrial. Some are chaotic. Some are simply very poor.

That doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not worth visiting.

In fact, several of the ports on this list received glowing reviews from passengers who booked the right excursions or arrived with realistic expectations about what they’d find ashore.

And remember, you never have to get off the ship in every port. Sometimes the best day of a cruise is enjoying a quieter pool deck while everyone else heads ashore.

The key is knowing what to expect before you go. Because even the world’s worst-rated cruise ports can still become memorable parts of the journey.

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